Spinal stenosis is a painful condition caused by narrowing of the spinal canals through which the spinal cord and other nerves pass. According to Medline Plus, spinal stenosis causes pressure on spinal nerves, which can lead to decreased sensation (such as numbness or tingling) as well as muscle weakness. Having appropriate treatment for spinal stenosis is the key to maintaining quality of life after the diagnosis.
Medications
Early spinal stenosis treatment is usually conservative and often includes medications. According to the Mayo Clinic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin are commonly used to control the pain and swelling associated with the spinal stenosis. Analgesics such as acetaminophen may also be used purely for pain control. Some medications are available over-the-counter, though prescription versions are available for more severe pain.
Supplements
Some doctors may also recommend supplements for spinal stenosis treatment. The Mayo Clinic reports that glucosamine and chondroitin may help ease some spinal stenosis symptoms, especially in people whose disease is caused by arthritis. However, there is little research currently available to support a significant change in spinal stenosis symptoms after using supplements.
Corticosteroid Injections
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) report that some physicians perform corticosteroid injections around the joints affected by spinal stenosis. Corticosteroids are strong anti-inflammatory medications and can decrease nerve pain symptoms caused by swelling for some people.
Rest
A doctor may also prescribe rest for someone who has spinal stenosis. Rest can mean anything from a decrease in physical activity and certain movements (such as bending or twisting) to bed rest with extreme activity limitations. The NIAMS reports that a prescription of rest often depends on the degree of nerve injury. The Mayo Clinic reports that a gradual return to activity after rest can relieve some people's spinal stenosis symptoms. Some doctors prescribe a back brace for wear during activities to maintain postural alignment.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist (PT) may be consulted to provide safe exercises for a person with spinal stenosis in order to strengthen the surrounding muscles and increase natural support. A PT can also advise people with spinal stenosis on more efficient ways to move to decrease the pressure on spinal nerves during daily activities.
Surgery
Surgery may be required if conservative methods fail to relieve spinal stenosis symptoms. The NIAMS reports that surgery may also be considered if the nerves that supply the bowel and bladder are affected. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three main types of surgeries that are commonly performed for people with spinal stenosis. These include a laminotomy (in which a portion of the spine is removed to create more space for nerves), a laminectomy (in which the entire piece of bone is removed from the rear of the involved spinal column bones) or a spinal fusion (in which spinal column bones are joined together to prevent movement). Sometimes, more than one approach is used for a person with spinal stenosis, depending on the degree of injury.
